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Police warn Poulsbo may need to amend budget to cover costly derelict‑boat salvage
Summary
Police reported a derelict powerboat in about 35 feet of water that could cost $30,000–$50,000 to salvage; the department plans to seek a budget amendment and expects reimbursement from the Department of Natural Resources but cautioned the reimbursement process will take time.
Lieutenant Zeman told council staff that a large derelict powerboat located in roughly 35 feet of water near Liberty Bay will likely require professional salvage that could cost the city tens of thousands of dollars.
On the record he said the removal estimate is “about at least $30,000 to take to salvage, if not, as much as possibly $50,000 to salvage.” Zeman said the city expects to seek reimbursement from the Washington Department of Natural Resources but that owners of derelict vessels are often difficult to locate, and reimbursement will take time.
Council and staff discussed timing and procurement options; the city administrator said staff will bring a formal budget amendment to council on July 15 and will use vetted vendors from the Department of Natural Resources' vendor list to expedite removal once authorized. Lieutenant Zeman added that current side‑scan sonar shows the hull appears intact and that an orange buoy marks the site for now.
